Chronicle & Echo reporter

Northamptonshire Trading Standards has signed up its 50th member to its Primary Authority business support service.

Since 2013 the county council’s Trading Standards team has been advising businesses on how to comply with complex consumer legislation through new Primary Authority partnerships following concerns that firms were receiving inconsistent advice from regulators.

A Primary Authority partnership sees Trading Standards working with a business to provide ongoing advice and support on specific areas of regulation applicable to the business.

Under the Primary Authority scheme, other regulators are unable to take enforcement action where firms have followed specific advice provided by Trading Standards.

Corby-based manufacturer of quality everyday kitchen and dining products Creative Tops has become the 50th business to go into partnership with Northamptonshire Trading Standards.

Other companies receiving support through the scheme include Travis Perkins, Wickes, Carlsberg, Whitworths and Avon Cosmetics.

County council cabinet member for public protection, strategic infrastructure and economic growth Cllr André Gonzalez de Savage said: “The Primary Authority scheme has enabled us to continue to provide high quality advice and support to businesses, which means they can operate with the certainty they are adhering to often complex regulations.

“I would invite any company who thinks they can benefit from a Primary Authority partnership with Trading Standards to contact us to find out more.”

Gary Brackenbury, of Creative Tops, said: “Primary Authority status means recognition and endorsement of our business procedures and processes for design, development and import of high quality tableware and kitchen products.

“This status will enhance customer confidence in our company and service. Benefits for the company include a named contact within the Trading Standards team, so we receive a quick response for any service or expertise we might require.”

Further information about Primary Authority partnerships can be found at www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/tradingstandards or by emailing business@northamptonshire.gov.uk.